Learn more about the religions of the world. Learn about Christianity, Taoisms, Christianity, and Hinduism. Each religion holds different beliefs and practices. Some religions have a greater emphasis on the personal, while some others place more importance on the larger picture. Some emphasize the importance of personal salvation and reject this world as corrupt.
Buddhism
Buddhism is an ancient religion that is based on the teachings of Buddha. It encourages self-denial, embraces karma and reincarnation. Although there are many Buddhist schools, there is one common core. These are the precepts, values, and virtues that Buddha expounded in the fifth century BC and which guide the 350 million Buddhists today.
Taoism
Taoism is based in the idea that all of the universe is part of one larger whole. This whole is known to be the Tao or the Dao. It is the force of the universe that runs through all things, binding and releasing them. Taoism is based on observation of the natural environment and belief in cosmic harmony. Some Taoists believe in spirit and ancestor worship.
Christianity
Although the question of Christianity's position among all the world's religions is complex, Christians must recognize that Christianity is not inferior or unique to any other faith. Indeed, interreligious dialogue is important in today's increasingly diverse world, and the increasing encounters between people of different cultures and beliefs are a necessary component of achieving enlightenment and a common commitment to peace and justice. Christians should not accept a place at the edges of interreligious communication. This question is not easy, but the biblical framework that assesses world religions provides a strong foundation for Christian engagement.
Hinduism
Hinduism has been a popular religion in India for centuries. Its origins date back 400 BCE, the time when the Indus people were worshiped. One of the oldest religious texts is the Vedas. It is a collection of sacred scriptures written in many languages. These texts have contributed to the growth of modern Hinduism, along with the worship tradition.
Sikhism
Guru Nanak was the founder of Sikh tradition. He lived in South Asia's Punjab region which is divided into India and Pakistan. Most Sikhs today live on the Indian side. The social injustices of his era disillusioned him. He believed in one divine force, which created the universe. This force is found within all things. Sikhism stresses service to humanity.
Unaffiliated people
Unaffiliated with any religion is a growing percentage of the world's population. These people are called "nones" as they represent a broad range of beliefs. They have set up advocacy and service clubs to voice their opinions on social issues. They are also expanding their reach to media. The majority of them, who are both young and secular, make them an important audience for media.
Folk religions
Folk religions are traditions that come from local or ethnic religious traditions. They are not officially recognized by any church or country. They are unique to a specific region or tribe and rely heavily in superstition and sympathetic magic for supernatural influences. These traditions are based on belief that the stars, planets and other celestial bodies influence human behavior on a spiritual and personal level.
Judaism
Judaism has been around since the beginning of time. It dates back to approximately 2,000 B.C., when the Hebrew people lived in the Middle East. Abraham, who was a male, is the focal point of the faith. Abraham, an older man without children, sought God’s help, and was given the promise of a large and fertile child. Abraham made a journey across the Middle East to find one God.